Podocarpus 'County Park Fire'

A spectacular and relatively rare conifer in UK gardens, 'County Park Fire' is prized for its extraordinary winter colour. This low, spreading evergreen shrub has small, needle-like leaves that are olive-green during the growing season. However, with the onset of cold winter weather, the foliage transforms into a brilliant, fiery bronze-red. This makes it an invaluable plant for providing "warm" colour in the winter landscape. It has a prostrate, somewhat arching habit, making it suitable for rock gardens, banks, or the edge of a mixed border. It originated in New Zealand and is surprisingly hardy in the UK, although it appreciates a site sheltered from the coldest winds and a well-drained soil that doesn't become waterlogged in winter. It grows slowly and requires very little maintenance. This cultivar is a fantastic choice for those looking for something a little different that offers a high-impact seasonal change.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Well-drained, neutral to acid soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.